Pathology · single question

A 50-year-old female has white striae (lacy lines) on the buccal mucosa. What is the diagnosis?

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  1. Leukoplakia
  2. Candidiasis
  3. Leukoedema
  4. Lichen planus
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Correct answer: A. Leukoplakia

  • A. Correct. White striae (Wickham's striae) on the buccal mucosa are pathognomonic for oral lichen planus. The reticular lacy white pattern is classic.
  • B. Incorrect. Leukoplakia is a homogeneous white patch without the striated pattern.
  • C. Incorrect. Candidiasis appears as wipeable white coating or red atrophic mucosa.
  • D. Incorrect. Leukoedema is a filmy opalescence that disappears when stretched.

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